Amazon Delves into Film

Amazon Studios is branching out from television to create original theatrical movies that will be released on its streaming service, Amazon Prime Instant Video.

April 6, 2018

The studio has found success with original TV content such as "Transparent," "Tumble Leaf" and "Mozart in the Jungle," and plans to use its Prime platform to provide early distribution of its theatrical films.

Whereas it typically takes 39 to 52 weeks for theatrical movies to premiere on subscription video services, Amazon original movies will premiere on Prime Instant Video in the U.S. around 4 to 8 weeks after their theatrical debut.

The studio also plans to acquire third-party original movies for distribution both online and theatrically.

“We look forward to expanding our production efforts into feature films. Our goal is to create close to 12 movies a year with production starting later this year,” says Roy Price, vice president, Amazon Studios. “Not only will we bring Prime Instant Video customers exciting, unique and exclusive

films soon after a movie’s theatrical run, but we hope this program will also benefit filmmakers, who too often struggle to mount fresh and daring stories that deserve an audience.”

Independent film producer Ted Hope (

Eat Drink Man Woman

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon

) will lead the creative development of Amazon original movies.